HLA-A66

HLA-A66 is a human leukocyte antigen serotype within the HLA-A serotype group. The serotype is determined by the antibody recognition of antigen A*6601. This broad antigen group also covers the more specific serotypes A*6602, A*6603, and A*6604.

Function

HLA-A66 is a part of the HLA-A gene complex, which encodes the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I heavy chain paralogues. This class I molecule is a heterodimer consisting of a heavy chain and a light chain (beta-2 microglobulin). The heavy chain is anchored in the membrane of cells, and the peptide presenting groove interacts with T cells to initiate an immune response.

Clinical significance

HLA-A66 has been associated with various autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis. It is also implicated in the susceptibility to infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C.

Distribution

HLA-A66 is found at highest frequencies in populations in West Africa, Central Africa, and South Asia. It is also present at lower frequencies in populations in Europe, North America, and East Asia.

See also

• HLA-A
• Human leukocyte antigen
• Major histocompatibility complex
• Autoimmune diseases